Del Mar Racetrack in San Diego County is taking the sting out of its horsewhips.
On Wednesday, it will become the first track in California to require the use of riding crops that can't raise welts.
The whips are made of softer leather or fabric. They're supposed to get the horse's attention with a popping noise rather than causing pain.
The new whips cost more but the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club will provide them to jockeys who can't afford them.
Actress Bo Derek, who's on the California Horse Racing Board, says she noticed many Del Mar jockeys already using the whips so she suggested making it a rule.
Hollywood Park will require the softer whips this fall. Tracks in Kentucky, New York and Maryland already require them.
